Backyard Chickens in Salem, Oregon

What the Salem Rules Say

Salem’s official poultry keeping rules allow poultry, including chickens, ducks, and similar birds, subject to city standards. The city allows up to 12 poultry total per premises and prohibits roosters.

Salem says no permit or license is needed for standard poultry keeping. The code sets requirements for the poultry facility, including coop size, runway enclosure, rear-yard location, and distance from nearby residences.

What This Means in Plain English

Backyard hens are allowed in Salem, and the city gives a clear limit: up to 12 poultry total. Keep the flock rooster-free and make sure the coop and run fit the city’s rear-yard and distance rules.

Although Salem does not require a standard poultry permit, your setup still needs to avoid noise, odor, sanitation, and zoning problems.

Practical Considerations

Coop and Run

Salem treats the poultry facility as a coop plus runway. The coop may be up to 120 square feet, and the runway must be fully enclosed or fenced and connected to the coop.

Placement

The facility must be in the rear yard, at least 3 feet from other buildings on the same property, and at least 25 feet from a residence on adjacent land. Zone setbacks still apply.

Bird Space

For chickens and most poultry, Salem requires at least 3 square feet of coop space and 6 square feet of run space per bird.

Getting Started

1. Confirm the current Salem poultry keeping rules.
2. Keep no more than 12 poultry total.
3. Do not keep roosters.
4. Place the coop and runway in the rear yard and measure the required distances.
5. Keep the facility clean enough to avoid odor, noise, and nuisance complaints.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have chickens in Salem?

Yes. Salem allows poultry, including chickens, under its poultry keeping rules.

How many hens can I have in Salem?

Salem allows up to 12 poultry total per premises.

Are roosters allowed in Salem?

No. Salem prohibits roosters.